Who Should I Start? Darnell Mooney or Xavier Legette

Monday, February 9, 7:05 PM

Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Darnell Mooney didn't live up to expectations during the 2025 season. Many fantasy managers viewed Mooney as one of the most intriguing No. 2 wide receivers in fantasy football coming into the year, but injuries and a lack of rapport with Atlanta's quarterbacks cost his fantasy managers in a big way. Mooney, who had 992 yards and five touchdowns in 2024, came back down to earth with just 32 catches, 443 yards, and one touchdown across 15 games this past season. The sixth-year receiver had the second-worst season of his career, letting down the managers who drafted him at his preseason ADP around 120. It will be interesting to see how the Falcons address their pass-catching unit this offseason. At the very least, we would expect them to bring in some competition for Mooney. However, the team also has a glaring hole at tight end with Kyle Pitts headed for free agency. Plus, the quarterback position remains in limbo with Michael Penix Jr. (knee) injured and Kirk Cousins' future uncertain. There are a lot of moving parts here, but one thing is for certain: Mooney will be ranked a lot lower in 2026 fantasy drafts than he was in 2025. Managers shouldn't be rushing to select Mooney or acquire him in dynasty leagues.

Thursday, February 19, 1:26 PM

A first-round pick in 2024, Carolina wide receiver Xavier Legette has yet to top 500 receiving yards or four touchdowns in either of his professional seasons. While he has shown the occasional flash, he looks to be heading in the wrong direction on the Panthers ' depth chart heading into 2026. Offensive Rookie of the Year Tetairoa McMillan led the team in almost all statistical categories in 2025, while Jalen Coker has been prioritized over Legette whenever he's healthy. With Coker seeing career highs in targets, receptions, and yards in Carolina's Wild Card playoff loss, and the Panthers regularly tied to the position in a wide receiver-heavy draft, Legette's value continues to slide. Quarterback Bryce Young has yet to hit 3,300 yards or 25 passing touchdowns through his first three seasons, making a meaningful fantasy impact nearly impossible for any receiver that dips too far from the top of the depth chart.